There is no doubt that nonverbal communication plays a significant role in Interpersonal relationships. As an image consultant I give help and advice on appearance and what to wear , but in recent years business clients have increasingly asked for help with other aspects of behaviour in the workplace.

The definition of etiquette is;"The rules of correct behaviour in society". In business this can cover everything from dining to emails, meetings to greetings and gestures to chewing gum! To some extent it’s what we should know anyway, but in an increasingly casual 21st century Britain we don’t. A whole generation is entering the workforce and moving up through it with gaps in their knowledge about what constitutes acceptable or appropriate behaviour. Why has this happened and why are people’s manners not what they were?

I think parents have to answer for some of the problem. Also the world of social media has blurred a lot of boundaries as to what’s acceptable now days,so that has contributed​. Perhaps we have also lost sight of just giving consideration to the other party.These days the world for some people is all about me. The basic rule of etiquette and good manners is to show consideration and respect for the other party. If you stop and think how the other person is likely to receive your communication and respond you can go a long way towards preventing misunderstandings and not giving offence.

Most managers agree that courtesy and an understanding of how to do the right thing in any situation are attributes that differentiate people in the workplace. People are often an organisations biggest asset but can also be a liability if they don’t behave in the right way. Behave in business as you would like others to. Introduce colleagues, don’t keep people waiting in person or on the phone, ,respect peoples time. Avoid interrupting meetings, if it’s unavoidable make your point quickly so people can get back to work. Treat everyone with the same courtesy don’t differentiate people by their job role or position in the company and show appreciation. Pass on praise and compliments to your team and colleagues and include everyone who made a contribution to the project. Be honest, give realistic deadlines and deliver work on time, otherwise you will get a reputation for unreliability. Build good working relationships, good work practice and mind your manners!